Salivary tumour rule mnemonic

Typical distribution of salivary gland tumours

The mnemonic

Rule of 80

What each word stands for

  • 80About 80 percent arise in the parotid
  • 80About 80 percent of parotid tumours are benign
  • 80About 80 percent of benign ones are pleomorphic adenoma

Why it matters clinically

Gives the likely diagnosis of a parotid lump.

Where it stops being reliable

Approximate figures; the submandibular gland has a higher malignant share.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Salivary tumour rule mnemonic?

Rule of 80. It helps you recall: Typical distribution of salivary gland tumours.

What does "80" stand for?

About 80 percent of benign ones are pleomorphic adenoma

What are all the parts of the Rule of 80 mnemonic?

80: About 80 percent arise in the parotid; 80: About 80 percent of parotid tumours are benign; 80: About 80 percent of benign ones are pleomorphic adenoma.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Salivary tumour rule in ENT.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Approximate figures; the submandibular gland has a higher malignant share.

How is this useful clinically?

Gives the likely diagnosis of a parotid lump.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a ENT question about Salivary tumour rule.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.